It’s not that common, but it certainly isn’t rare. Dry socket, as it’s called, can prolong the time it takes to heal after tooth extractions. But by following the essential aftercare instructions your dentist will leave with you, you can minimize the chances you’ll develop an infection at the extraction site after a tooth extraction. Take a look at some of the things your dentist will recommend you do following a tooth extraction.
Cleaning, Caring and Clotting
Keep the tooth extraction site will be one of your top priorities in the days immediately following your procedure. However, cleaning too aggressively could interfere with another top priority: encouraging the extraction site to clot.
Here are some things you can do to help the extraction site clot:
· Bite down on the gauze your dentist will give you
· Don’t drink through straws, chewing gum or spit. This will help you avoid accidentally dislodging the clot.
· Avoid drinking hot or accidentally beverages until the clot has formed
· Keep your head elevated to keep pressure off the clot
Even after the clot has formed, you’ll need to diligently care for the extraction site to prevent an infection from forming. These are some things you can do to help keep the extraction site clean:
- Brush and floss twice a day
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing and flossing
- Be especially careful when brushing and flossing near the extraction site
- Use a water flosser to clean the extraction site after the clog has established
When to Seek Help
If a clot won’t form at the extraction site, contact your dentist’s office. For profuse bleeding, seek medical assistance with haste. Keep in mind that the content here doesn’t represent medical advice. Always use your best judgment when determining if you need medical intervention. And if you’re ever in doubt, you should contact first responders.
More on Tooth Extractions in Phoenix, AZ
Take time to schedule a consultation with a local dentist to learn more about what you can expect from tooth extractions in Phoenix, AZ.
